The Elvietra Process: From First Email to Finished Work

People often wonder what commissioning a painting actually involves. Not the romantic version — the studio, the oil, the slow reveal — but the practical version. The emails, the decisions, the weeks of waiting. This is that version.

Step One: The Inquiry

Every commission begins with an inquiry form or a direct email. At this stage, we ask only for the basics: the occasion, the subject, the approximate size you have in mind, and any initial thoughts on style. This is not a commitment. It is a conversation.

Step Two: The Consultation

We respond within 48 hours to schedule a brief consultation — by email or video call, depending on preference. During this conversation, we look at your photographs together, discuss the style options, confirm the format and size, and answer any questions about the process. At the end of the consultation, we provide a formal quote and timeline.

Step Three: The Commission Agreement

Once the quote is accepted, a 50% deposit secures your commission and places you in our studio schedule. We provide a written agreement confirming the scope, timeline, and revision policy. The remaining 50% is due before delivery.

Step Four: The Work

This is the longest phase. Depending on the complexity of the commission, painting takes six to twelve weeks. We provide at minimum one progress image at the halfway point, and are available for questions throughout.

Step Five: Delivery

The finished painting is photographed in studio before shipping. It arrives rolled in acid-free tissue within a protective tube, or framed depending on your preference. A certificate of authenticity accompanies every work.

The process is designed to be unhurried. The work requires time. And the result — we trust — is worth every week of it.